OU student farm grows sustainability

By Andi Anderson

Just a short drive from Ohio University’s campus, the Ohio University Student Farm stands as a hidden treasure, promoting sustainable agriculture and hands-on learning.

Managed by Tony Noble, who has overseen the farm for the past year, the farm provides students with valuable insights into the intricacies of farming that go beyond textbook learning.

Noble emphasizes the importance of practical experience in farming, saying, “There are so many intricate details and wisdom you gain from hands-on farming that you just can’t learn in a book.

You have to do things, fail at them, and figure out how it works.” His goal is to teach students not only farming techniques but also how to recover from the small challenges that inevitably arise in agriculture.

The farm primarily hosts summer interns, plant biology students, and members of the Student Farmers Club, but Noble believes that students from all disciplines can benefit from time spent on the farm. He highlights that the skills learned, such as problem-solving and adaptability, are relevant across all fields of study.

For students like Joey Haas, a senior in plant biology and president of the Student Farmers Club, the farm offers invaluable lessons in sustainable agriculture. Haas appreciates the opportunity to learn about planting schedules, water management, and sustainable practices that differ from conventional farming methods.

The farm also serves as a resource for students to reconnect with the origins of their food. “It’s good to know where your food comes from,” Haas remarks, stressing the importance of this connection in today’s consumer-driven society.

Kaya Stone, a senior studying environmental science and sustainability, spent her summer interning at the farm. She values the farm’s role in connecting with the community and learning about USDA-certified organic farming practices.

The farm’s produce, including peppers, okra, and squash, is supplied to local businesses like Kindred Market and Little Fish Brewery.

David Rosenthal, an associate professor of plant biology, handles the farm’s financial aspects and highlights the ongoing challenge of securing funding and staff.

Despite these challenges, Rosenthal believes the farm plays a crucial role in the university’s mission, offering volunteer opportunities and serving as a valuable educational resource.

The Ohio University Student Farm is not just a place for learning about agriculture; it’s a space for all students to gain practical skills, connect with their food sources, and contribute to the local community.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike